Cruise Planners Wins Esteemed Department of Defense Patriot Award

Cruise Planners Wins Esteemed Department of Defense Patriot Award

Cruise Planners, the nation's largest home-based travel franchise network, has been awarded the prestigious Department of Defense Patriot Award, recognizing its strong commitment to supporting military service members. This award, given by the Florida Committee of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), celebrates individual supervisors and organizations that excel in their efforts to assist National Guard and Reserve service members and their families.

Nomination by a Dedicated Franchise Owner

The nomination for this honor came from Robert Feus, a Cruise Planners franchise owner and U.S. Coast Guard Reservist. Feus emphasized the unique bond between the franchise network and its military franchisees during the nomination. He highlighted how Cruise Planners distinguishes itself as a top franchise opportunity for veterans by offering a discounted franchise fee, flexible work hours, time off for deployments, and continuous business support.

A Heartfelt Message from Leadership

“I am honored to accept the Service Member Patriot Award on behalf of Cruise Planners. Supporting our veterans and active duty service members is a core value at our company, and this recognition reflects our dedication to those who serve our country,” said Michelle Fee, founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. She expressed pride in providing franchisees with the necessary tools and resources to thrive, while also addressing the unique challenges associated with military service. This award serves as a testament to Cruise Planners' ongoing commitment to supporting military families in every possible way.

Support from the Executive Team

In addition to the Patriot Award, significant recognition was given to key members of the Cruise Planners Executive Team, including Michelle Fee, CEO; Theresa Scalzitti, COO; Scott Koepf, CSO; and Brian Shultz, CIO. They were nominated for their exceptional dedication to supporting those in the National Guard and Reserve.

Seamless Business Continuity

According to Feus, the Cruise Planners Executive Team has shown remarkable support for military service members, not only through policy but also through direct engagement with families during service periods. The support extends to ensuring seamless business operations, enabled by advanced technology and a committed Home Office team. These resources allow franchise owners, like Feus, to maintain profitable businesses during military deployments.

“The Cruise Planners team checks in on my family while I am deployed, ensuring my business remains stable and my loved ones are taken care of. This level of commitment is unparalleled,” Feus shared.

Looking Toward Future Recognition

Beyond the recognition of the Patriot Award, Cruise Planners has also been nominated for the Above and Beyond Award, which acknowledges organizations that surpass ESGR's expectations in supporting military service members and their families. The announcement of the winner is anticipated later this year.

This accolade further enhances Cruise Planners' reputation as a franchise that empowers veterans and facilitates their success in both business and service to our country.

Company Background

Cruise Planners, founded in 1994, is recognized as the largest home-based travel agent franchise network in the nation. It leads the travel franchise industry by supporting a nationwide network of 2,500 franchise owners through innovative marketing initiatives, exclusive booking and technological tools, and professional development programs. The company has consistently been an industry leader, being named the No. 1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 years in a row and awarded by Franchise Business Review as "Best-In-Category" for two years.

In 2024, Cruise Planners received a noteworthy 99% franchise owner satisfaction report from Franchise Business Review and ranked #3 overall on their list of Top 200 Franchises for 2022. Recently, Cruise Planners was highlighted in Entrepreneur magazine as one of the top 30 franchise innovators in technology and has been recognized as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal. The company is also a member of the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America and was celebrated as one of the Top Workplaces by the Sun Sentinel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Department of Defense Patriot Award?

The Department of Defense Patriot Award honors organizations and individuals for their exceptional support of military service members and their families.

Who nominated Cruise Planners for this award?

Robert Feus, a Cruise Planners franchise owner and U.S. Coast Guard Reservist, nominated the company for the Patriot Award.

What does Cruise Planners offer to military service members?

Cruise Planners provides military service members with discounted franchise fees, flexible schedules, and continuous business support.

What is the Above and Beyond Award?

This award recognizes organizations that exceed expectations in supporting military service members and their families.

How long has Cruise Planners been in business?

Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 and has grown to be the largest home-based travel franchise network in the U.S.

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